Predator: All movies from the franchise ranked

Predator is an American sci-fi anthology film franchise that originated with the 1987 film directed by John McTiernan. Now, almost four decades later, it has expanded into a successful franchise with multiple sequels and crossover films. Moreover, it has gained a dedicated fandom whose affinity for the films has endured the test of time.

Primarily known for its top-notch action sequences, the franchise mixes horror, suspense, action, and science fiction to provide viewers with an unforgettable cinematic experience. Undoubtedly, these films have created a lasting legacy, with the latest installment of the franchise being Predator: Killer of Killers, that released in June 2025, and another upcoming one titled Predator: Badlands, set to premiere in November 2025.

Disclaimer: The article solely expresses the writer's opinions. Readers' discretion is advised.

Ranking all eight Predator movies based on how well they entertained the viewers

8) Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)

This sequel to the 2004 crossover film AVP earned negative reviews from viewers after its release because of its weak plot, editing, and lighting. Directed by Greg and Colin Strause, the film continued directly from the previous film but mainly focused on a small American town.

The introduction of a Predalien hybrid in the film sounded promising, but the direction did not live up to the expectations. Most of the shots in the movie were too dark, the lighting and visuals making action sequences hard to follow.

The film failed to create a lasting impact with its stereotypical characters and focused more on gore than suspense.

7) Alien vs. Predator (2004)

Directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, AVP lands in seventh position on the list. It marked the first crossover of two major franchises in a setting that should have offered plenty to its audience.

The film is centered around an ancient civilization that worshiped alien hunters, who used Earth as a hunting and breeding ground for Xenomorphs. Although the idea was unique, the PG-13 rating made the film go downhill.

In the film, the dynamic between an alien hunter and a human character was rushed and lacked emotional connection.

6) The Predator (2018)

The film received mixed to negative comments upon its release for several reasons. Directed by Shane Black, it followed Quinn McKenna, an army sniper, who goes on a mission to kill the Predator and save his son, Rory, who was kidnapped.

The film did not work for the audience since it deviated from the franchise's original identity and had too many comical scenarios. Many fans also felt that the film had a messy plot, which could not keep them engaged until the end.

5) Predators (2010)

Directed by Nimród Antal, the film recieved mixed reviews from the audience. It followed a group of mercenaries and militia people, who got stuck on an alien planet that acted as a game preserve where they were being hunted. To save themselves, they had to band together and fight against bloodthirsty aliens.

The movie introduced a new perspective to the movie. However, it lacked depth, and the actors could not do justice to their roles, in terms of acting and portrayal of the scenes, especially the fighting ones.

4) Predator 2 (1990)

A sequel to the original 1987 film, this was directed by Stephen Hopkins. It followed Lieutenant Mike Harrigan, who, along with his team, goes on a mission to hunt down a vicious alien hunter rampaging through Los Angeles.

Although many fans believe this to be a fun action film, which has since gained a cult following, fans of the original found a couple of loopholes, determining this as a mediocre addition to the franchise. Many fans could not adjust to Danny Glover taking the lead role. Additionally, the change in setting from a jungle to a city did not impress some fans.

3) Prey (2022)

One of the latest from the franchise, Prey, was well-received by the fans. The film followed a skilled warrior who protected her tribe from a highly evolved Predator that hunted humans to keep her community safe.

Featuring a female protagonist for the first time in the franchise, the film became a success soon after its release. Although mainly considered a hit, certain fans did not like the film due to a variety of reasons, like feeling the movie was slow-moving during the first half.

However, keeping aside the minute issues, Prey was a hit, especially for director Dan Trachtenberg, who also got the green light to produce another sequel.

2) Predator: Killer of Killers (2022)

Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, the recently released film was loved by the audience. The film followed a Viking, a ninja from feudal Japan, and a pilot from World War II who come together to fight a Predator.

As per critics and fans, the movie revived the legacy of the franchise with Trachtenberg using animation to showcase the fierce battle between humans and the deadly alien. The film had fresh ideas, like combining three timelines together and turning the franchise towards animation.

1) Predator (1987)

The original film that spawned the franchise takes the first spot on the list. Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger in the leading role, it followed a team of elite soldiers as they were sent to a jungle for a mission. However, they soon started to get hunted one by one by the alien.

The movie is loved by fans for its simple structure and intense action sequences. In addition to this, the film maintained a consistent pace, and the action scenes resonated with the plot rather than overpowering it. The alien's limited screen time also helped build mystery, which excited the fans upon its release.

While not all the movies in the franchise are equally well-received, each of them has contributed to expanding its identity, something that will continue with the November 2025 instalment to the franchise.

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